Whether you are a patient or visitor at Los Robles Hospital, we want your experience with us to be as pleasant as possible. We have provided helpful information to help you during your stay or while visiting a patient in the hospital.

Botulism

Definition

Botulism is a potentially deadly illness that is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium called
Clostridium botulinum.

Causes

The bacteria are found in the soil and at the bottom of lakes, streams, and oceans. The intestinal tracts of fish, mammals, crabs, and other shellfish may contain
C. botulinum
and its spores. The bacterium's spores can survive in improperly prepared foods.
A very small amount of the botulism toxin can cause illness. People are exposed to this toxin in one of three ways:

Food can be contaminated with the toxin and/or bacteria. It is the toxin produced by
C. botulinum—not
C. botulinum
itself—that causes botulism in humans. Food that may be contaminated with the toxin include:

Home-canned goods

Sausage

Meat products

Seafood

Canned vegetables

Honey

If an infant swallows
C. botulinum
spores, they will grow in the baby's body and produce the toxin. Unlike adults and older children, infants become sick from toxin produced by bacteria growing in their own intestines. Honey is a prime source of infant botulism. Other sources include soil and dust.

A wound can become infected with the bacteria, but this is rare in the United States. The toxin then travels to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

In some cases, the source of the bacteria is unknown.
Botulism toxin
is also a potential bioterrorism agent.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance of getting botulism include:

Eating improperly preserved, cooked, or canned foods

For infants, consuming honey

Using IV drugs or a dirty wound—rare

Symptoms

Symptoms begin in the face and eyes, and progress down both sides of the body. If left untreated, muscles in the arms, legs, and torso, as well as those used in breathing become unable to move. Death can occur.

When food is the cause of botulism, symptoms usually start within 36 hours of eating the contaminated food. Some people notice symptoms within a few hours. Others may not develop symptoms for several days. Some people experience nausea, vomiting, and
diarrhea.

When a wound is the cause of botulism, symptoms start within 4-14 days.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Blood, stool, and stomach contents will be tested for the toxin. In infants, stool will also be tested for
C. botulinum. If available, samples of questionable food may also be tested for the toxin and bacteria. A wound culture will be done if wound botulism is suspected.

Treatment

Supportive Care

The most serious complication is respiratory failure. Treatment aims to maintain adequate oxygen supply. This may require a ventilator and close monitoring in an intensive care unit.
IV fluids or feeding through a tube may also be necessary.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.